Virtual Gaming Worlds Provides Comment on California Plans

VGW's Official Statement

California's AB 831 bill is set to take effect on Jan. 1, 2026, and will ban sweepstakes plans.

Now, in a statement to Sweepsy, VGW has revealed its plans.

“We can confirm that due to new legislation taking effect in California on January 1, 2026, we’ve informed players of a decision to phase out Promotional Play (sweepstakes promotions) in the state,” a VGW spokesperson told Sweepsy.

“This is a disappointing outcome for players and the State. As we repeatedly tried to explain to legislators following the introduction of AB 831, rather than pass a rushed, misinformed ban pushed by powerful tribes and gaming groups, California could have benefited from instead implementing a sensible, modern regulatory and taxation framework for Social Plus games that raised new revenue, codified our robust consumer protections and maintained more than $1 billion of current economic activity generated by the industry.

“But unfortunately, legislators and the Governor chose to rush through this legislation rather than properly consult and consider these opportunities. As such, we will be phasing out Promotional Play in California from December 30, 2025, when players will no longer be able to collect Sweeps Coins through any method.”

Additional Plans

While the process begins on Dec. 30, players have until Jan. 15 to redeem any Sweeps Coins in their account. That said, they will be lost thereafter.

“However, our valued players in California will still be able to enjoy all their favorite free-to-play games using Gold Coins,” the spokesperson said, “and we are 100 percent focused on ensuring players are fully informed about the changes, and that this transition is as smooth as possible.”

With Gold Coins play available, this aligns with what other brands, such as ARB Interactive, B-Two Operations, and others, are doing.

Meanwhile, brands like Yellow Social Interactive and Stake.us are just leaving the state entirely.

While Gold Coins have no cash value for players, players still use them. Light & Wonder generates about $200 million per quarter from its social casinos, which use only Gold Coins.

VGW Sent An Email

In addition to the statement to Sweepsy, VGW sent an email to its California players.

"We’re reaching out to let you know about upcoming changes to [site name] in line with new legislation taking effect in California on January 1, 2026.

"From December 30, 2025, we will be phasing out Promotional Play (Sweeps Coins) in the state of California.

"While Promotional Play will no longer be available, you’ll still be able to enjoy all your favorite games in Standard Play using Gold Coins. We’re also working on new ways for California players to enjoy our games in 2026 – stay tuned!

"What does this mean for you?

"Effective December 30, 2025, you will no longer be able to collect Sweeps Coins through any method, including login bonuses, competitions and promotional bonuses with the purchase of Gold Coins. You will also no longer be able to play our games using Sweeps Coins. Additionally, alternative methods of entry (AMOE), including postal requests, will no longer be accepted. However, you’ll still be able to lodge redemption requests.

"As of January 15, 2026, you will no longer be able to redeem any Sweeps Coins won for prizes.

"We’d like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank you for your continued support and loyalty to the [site name] community. We remain committed to continuing to provide you with fun and exciting experiences in Standard Play."

This news comes after VGW launched LuckyLand Casino, a brand new sweepstakes casino.